The young star’s sudden death stunned her loved ones — but as her family breaks their silence, the tragedy deepens with revelations that shed light on the final moments of her life.
Sophie Nyweide, a former child star known for her roles in “Mammoth” and “An Invisible Sign,” was found dead at just 24 years old in her hometown of Bennington, Vermont.
Sophie Nyweide at the “Bella” New York premiere on October 25, 2007, at Tribeca Cinemas. | Source: Getty Images
In the days following her death, new information has surfaced — including a deeply personal interview with her mother and a heartbreaking revelation. According to police in Bennington, Vermont, Nyweide was found unresponsive around 4 a.m. in a wooded area along the banks of the Roaring Branch River.
Sophie Nyweide at the screening of the movie “Bella” at Florence Gould Hall on July 27, 2007, in New York. | Source: Getty Images
The location, not far from a local high school, was described as rugged and isolated, with makeshift shelters constructed from downed trees nearby.
First responders had been called to the scene following a 911 report from a man who had been with her in the area. Despite efforts to revive her, the young actress was declared dead at approximately 5 a.m.
Jessica Alba and Sophie Nyweide filming in Tarrytown, New York, on November 4, 2008. | Source: Getty Images
Bennington Police have since confirmed that the man who placed the emergency call is cooperating with authorities. While he has not been named as a suspect, officials have stated that they are not ruling out foul play.
Due to the active nature of the investigation, further details remain undisclosed. Nyweide’s mother, Shelly Gibson, gave an exclusive interview to the Daily Mail in which she opened up about her daughter’s struggles and the devastating circumstances surrounding her death.
Sophie Nyweide at the premiere of “Mammoth” during the 59th Berlin Film Festival in Germany, 2009. | Source: Getty Images
Gibson, 63, said that Nyweide had been spending time with friends in Bennington the night she died. While the cause of death is still pending toxicology results, Gibson revealed that she suspects it was an accidental drug overdose.
“I am aware she was using drugs. She had been for quite a while,” Gibson said. “We had put her in many treatment centers. We don’t have the toxicology reports back yet. But my expectation is that it will be a drug overdose.”
Sophie Nyweide during the 59th Berlin Film Festival in Germany, 2009. | Source: Getty Images
Despite their repeated efforts to help her, Gibson said Nyweide resisted sustained treatment. “She repeatedly said she would ‘handle it’ on her own,” the mourning mother noted, “and was compelled to reject the treatment that might possibly have saved her life.”
Adding another layer of sorrow, Gibson confirmed that Sophie was pregnant when she died — a fact that had been quietly documented in her death certificate. It is not yet clear how far along she was in the pregnancy.
On April 20, Gibson took to social media to share a deeply emotional message about her daughter’s passing. “RIP, my Sophie. She graced us for far too short a time. My daughter was a light for all who met her,” she wrote.
“For those of us who were truly close with Sophie, we are gutted and will need a long time to get over her passing. I know I never will. God I love my daughter. I want her back. Fly high sweetheart — you always could,” the child star’s mother added.
Despite stepping out of the limelight in recent years, Nyweide had built an impressive résumé as a child actor. After landing a role in the 2006 movie “Bella,” she gained widespread recognition for her performance in “Mammoth” in 2009, where she starred alongside Gael García Bernal and Michelle Williams.
In the film, she delivered a nuanced portrayal of Jackie, a young girl navigating a fractured family dynamic. A year later, she appeared in “An Invisible Sign,” sharing the screen with Jessica Alba.
Nyweide also worked with industry heavyweights including James Franco in “Shadows & Lies” and Russell Crowe in “Noah”, leaving a lasting impression with her natural talent.
As the world mourns the loss of Nyweide, another tragedy has shaken a community across the Atlantic — the sudden death of a rising soccer talent in London earlier this month.
Izaiah Smith, a 15-year-old soccer star on the rise, passed away after going for a swim. As tributes pour in and his school rallies behind his grieving family, emerging details surrounding the circumstances of his passing paint a heartbreaking picture of a vibrant life lost far too soon.
Smith was found dead late Friday night (April 4, 2025) after entering the waters of a lake located in Beckenham Place Park, situated in South East London.
Authorities confirmed that his body was discovered at approximately 10:40 p.m. BST following a search operation conducted by specialist dive teams. The Metropolitan Police stated that while the death is considered “unexpected,” it is not believed to be suspicious.
The force notified Smith’s family and shared that specialist officers are supporting them during this incredibly difficult time.
In the wake of the tragedy, Lewisham Council has taken precautionary steps to secure the area. While the wider Beckenham Place Park has reopened, the lake remains closed as a safety measure, with security stationed on-site “until further notice,” as they put it.
A police officer surveying the scene at Beckenham Place Park after Izaiah Smith was found dead in Lewisham, South East London on April 5, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
A spokesperson for the council expressed the community’s collective sorrow, stating, “We send our thoughts and deepest condolences to his family and friends. We are working closely with the police in order that their investigation establishes the full facts of what’s happened.”
Smith’s untimely passing is particularly poignant as another heartbreaking incident involving 11-year-old Kaliyah Coa — who went missing in the River Thames — unfolded just days later. According to the Met, a “recovery mission” remains underway in her case.
The late teen’s educational institution, Kingsdale Foundation School, and the wider community have been left heartbroken in the wake of Smith’s passing.
In a letter addressed to parents, guardians, and carers, Headteacher Steve Morrison extended heartfelt thanks for the “kind words and ongoing support at this very difficult time,” acknowledging the emotional toll of the tragedy across the school’s extended network.
As tributes continue to pour in, the school has established several ways for the community to collectively grieve. A book of condolence has been made available on school grounds and will remain open throughout the holiday period and beyond.
“Those who have expressed a wish to leave flowers, cards and tributes for the family can also do so,” the letter states. Morrison clarified that students and parents may contact the school for support via an email address he attached with the statement.
The headteacher also relayed a message from Smith’s family, describing it as one that echoed the sentiments of the entire Kingsdale community.
The family began their statement by saying, “It is with profound sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved Izaiah; cherished son, brother, cousin, nephew, classmate, and friend. His bright future was tragically cut short in a drowning accident, leaving an irreplaceable void in the lives of all who knew him.”
A view of people swimming in the lake at Beckenham Place Park in Beckenham, England on July 16, 2021. | Source: Getty Images
Remembered for far more than his athletic abilities, Smith’s loved ones highlighted how he uniquely uplifted those around him — his “infectious smile, charm, kindness, and unwavering dedication to others” turned ordinary moments into bright ones. As a rising soccer talent, he devoted himself to constant growth on and off the field.
The family described his legacy as one of “love, perseverance, and the joy he brought to every moment and everyone.” The loved ones also acknowledged the overwhelming support from the community in the days following his death, sharing that they have been “deeply comforted by the outpouring of love and support during this unimaginable time.”
To honor Smith’s memory, his family invited those who feel moved to do so to contribute toward funeral and bereavement expenses, adding, “Each gesture will help us create a fitting tribute to celebrate his remarkable but short life and the light he shared with the world.”
They also encouraged anyone wishing to leave messages, memories, or condolences to do so through Kingsdale Foundation School, where their words could become “a lasting comfort to our family as we navigate this loss.” In closing, the family reiterated their gratitude to those who have already offered their support, writing, “Your love has been a beacon of strength and light in our darkest hours.”
Anchored within Smith’s family’s tribute is a link to a GoFundMe page. Titled “In Loving Memory of Izaiah,” the fundraiser was launched by Cara Gbemew on behalf of the parents of children and staff at Kingsdale Foundation School to assist Smith’s grieving family.
The campaign’s message reads, “We would like to raise funds in honour [sic] of Izaiah Smith who was sadly taken from many loved ones on Friday the 4th Of April. All donations will be greatly appreciated to support his family in this difficult time.”
The fundraiser also features the touching letter shared by Smith’s family. Accompanying the page is a black-and-white photo of Smith with his eyes gently closed and a peaceful expression on his face. The image appears to be set against the backdrop of a dimly lit soccer field — a poignant reflection of the boy he was and the sport he loved.
What began as a modest goal of approximately $3,817.94 (£3,000) has been met with an overwhelming response. As of now, 545 donations have poured in, pushing the total amount raised to about $15,751.53 (£12,377) — more than quadrupling the original target. This generosity reflects a community eager to wrap Smith’s family in care, love, and financial relief as they process an unimaginable loss.
The wave of grief following Smith’s passing has extended beyond his family, school, and immediate community, reaching into the broader world of youth football. Dorking Wanderers Football Club (FC), one of the clubs with which Smith was affiliated, expressed sorrow over the devastating loss of one of their own.
In a public tribute shared on Facebook, the club dubbed Smith a “hugely popular and talented young man,” emphasizing his profound impact on those around him. The message underscored the tragedy of his passing, noting the difficulty in finding words to capture the weight of such a loss.
Dorking Wanderers FC also extended heartfelt condolences to Smith’s loved ones while promising to offer support in any way they can to those affected. Among the many organizations impacted by Smith’s passing is the Starz Elite Development Academy (SEDA), where he was a cherished member of the U16s team.
In a moving tribute, the academy described their collective heartbreak, noting that they were mourning the loss of a talented player and a “bright light within our programme [sic].” The academy’s message remembered Smith as a constant presence at training — someone who would arrive with “the most adorable smile” and light up the room with his “huge character and infectious energy.”
Beyond his talent on the field, he was praised for his respectful nature, consistent kindness, and consideration to all coaches and staff. SEDA noted how deeply he touched the lives of those around him, expressing, “The players and coaching staff at SEDA Academy will forever cherish the memories we shared with Izaiah.”
In closing, SEDA members extended their deepest condolences to Smith’s family and friends, expressing hope that they can find comfort in their own way. “You will always be in our hearts,” they wrote — a sentiment echoed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Underneath their message, the academy shared a touching collage of photos capturing Smith in his element — both candid and composed moments from the field and locker room, standing proudly beside his teammates.
As the tributes continue to echo from classrooms, soccer fields, and community spaces, the grief surrounding Smith’s passing has also struck a chord with those connected to him by even the thinnest thread.
One mother, whose son was a classmate of Smith’s, shared a heartfelt message about the teen’s death on Facebook.
Her words offered a poignant reminder of the fragility of life, as she highlighted, “Tomorrow is not promised… and shocks like this remind us to seize the day and cherish each moment u have with the ones u love [sic].”
We wish to extend our most heartfelt condolences to Smith’s family, friends, school, community, and everyone mourning him. We hope for their healing amid their grief of such a significant loss. RIP, dear Smith.
